Exam Appeal Process

Examination Appeal Process

There are three possible levels of appeal for examination related protests. The first level is with the Examiner of Record. The second level is with the Personnel Director. The third level is with the Personnel Commission. For additional information refer to PC Rule 624

The information below, with the exception of submission timelines, applies to all levels of appeal. In the response letter you receive at each level of appeal, you will receive information on how to proceed and time frame for submission if you choose to proceed to the next level of appeal.

Candidates may protest their test results only after they have participated in a timely review of their examination results with a member of the Personnel Commission staff.

Bases for an Appeal

There are three bases upon which to appeal examination results. Below is a definition for each basis. Appeals which are not consistent with one of these reasons for protest will not be considered. Disagreement alone with the raters is not a basis for appeal. Failure to submit a protest within the prescribed time limits to the Personnel Commission (Classified Examination Unit) constitutes a waiver of the right to appeal test results.

Procedural Error

Procedural error is a lapse, omission, or breach in the consistency of the administration of the process that may cause some individuals to be unfairly advantaged or disadvantaged in the assessment. To protest on the basis of procedural error, one must identify the specific error and explain the reason that the issue affected their examination outcome.

Abuse of Discretion or Bias

Abuse of discretion is the exercise of judgment made irrespective of the facts. Bias is an express or implicit favoritism or disfavor for specific individuals. To protest on the basis of abuse of discretion or bias, one must identify the divergence of judgment from facts and data or the specific biasing relationship or factor and explain the reason that the conduct affected their examination outcome.

Illegal Discrimination

Illegal discrimination is anything written, stated, or otherwise communicated that indicates discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity, sexual preference, or any other category of people protected under anti-discrimination law. To protest on the basis of discrimination, one must identify specific evidence of discrimination (e.g., a comment, statement, or act) and explain how the comment, statement or act affected their examination outcome.

Checklist

To begin the appeal process (1st level), your protest must:

Be in writing

Clearly articulate your basis for appeal

Identify the remedy sought

Be received in our office by 4:00 p.m. within 5 working days from the date you reviewed your examination materials in our office. Appeals may be hand delivered or sent by mail to: Classified Examinations Unit – Personnel Commission, Los Angeles Community College District, 770 Wilshire Boulevard – 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017.